In an exciting announcement, Liverpool is set to welcome a Broadway musical featuring a beloved local icon. This September, the acclaimed romantic comedy "Waitress" will grace the stage of the Liverpool Empire Theatre as part of its 10th anniversary tour.
At the heart of "Waitress" is the story of Jenna Hunterson, a talented pie maker who finds herself trapped in a stifling and emotionally abusive marriage while grappling with an unexpected pregnancy. To cope with her challenging situation, she expresses herself through her creative pie recipes and finds solace in the support of her close friends and fellow diner employees, Becky and Dawn.
The turning point comes when Jenna decides to enter a pie-baking contest, igniting a glimmer of hope that she might finally seize control of her life and achieve the independence she craves.
As the narrative unfolds, Jenna navigates the complexities of her relationships, including a surprising romance with her doctor, all while learning to appreciate her own self-worth. The musical ultimately serves as a powerful testament to self-discovery and resilience, celebrating themes of female empowerment, friendship, and the journey of starting anew.
Liverpool's own Les Dennis, a cherished figure in both stage and screen, will take on the role of Joe, the diner owner where Jenna works. Joining him is Sandra Marvin, who will reprise her role as Becky after previously performing in "Waitress" in both the West End and on tour. More casting details are expected to be revealed soon.
Adapted from the 2007 film penned by Adrienne Shelly, the touring version of "Waitress" features delightful music and lyrics by the Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Sara Bareilles, along with a book by Jessie Nelson.
Under the direction of Tony Award winner Diane Paulus and with choreography by Lorin Latarro, this production has garnered numerous accolades and nominations in both the UK and the US, solidifying its place in theatrical history.
Commemorating a decade since its original debut, "Waitress" first opened on Broadway at the Brooks Atkinson Theatre on April 24, 2016, continuing its run until January 5, 2020. It made its London West End debut at the Adelphi Theatre on March 7, 2019.
Since then, the show has achieved international acclaim, with performances staged across North America, Japan, the Netherlands, a French-language rendition in Canada, and a Spanish-language version in Mexico. Additionally, an Australian production is set to launch in Melbourne and Sydney in the spring of 2026.
Mark your calendars: the Liverpool Empire Theatre will host "Waitress" from Monday, September 7, through Saturday, September 12.
